Brussels, Belgium,
14
January
2013
|
02:00
Europe/Amsterdam

2013 New Verso DPL: Enhanced driving dynamics

  • Revised suspension for improved ride comfort and stability
  • Increased bodyshell rigidity for enhanced body control and handling agility
  • Improved Electric Power Steering feel and response for a more confident, reassuring drive
  • Enhanced aerodynamics for high speed stability, reduced wind noise and improved fuel economy

The stability and ride comfort of a conventional passenger car are fundamental dynamic attributes of the C-MPV segment, and the Verso is already appreciated for its high level of stability and the confidence it inspires in its drivers.

In the new Verso, Toyota's engineers have focused on revisions to the vehicle's body rigidity, suspension and Electric Power Steering (EPS) to combine these essential attributes with improved ride comfort, greater body control and, most significantly, improved steering feel and response for more agile, engaging handling.

 

Revised Suspension set-up for Improved Ride Comfort

Both the front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension systems have been redeveloped. Damper and valve settings have been changed to combine stable handling with maximum ride comfort for all vehicle occupants.

 

Improved Steering Feel and Response

Improvements to steering feel and response have been achieved through both bodyshell rigidity enhancements and revisions to the Electric Power Steering itself.

Body rigidity has been improved through the addition of extra welding points to the tailgate opening surround and rear door pillar. And the front suspension system features new bracing and reinforcements. The increases in bodyshell and suspension mounting rigidity improve body control and the fidelity of the suspension geometry and, hence, the speed and accuracy of steering response.

In conjunction with these improvements in body control and suspension fidelity, the EPS control software has been revised. The result is an improvement in steering precision, linear response and feel the improved accuracy and feedback giving Verso drivers a stronger sense of connection to the road surface for greater confidence behind the wheel.

 

Enhanced Aerodynamics

Benefitting from a new frontal design and smaller door mirrors, the new Verso's overall aerodynamic performance has been improved by 5-10%. This has resulted in increased fuel efficiency, better NVH, a more comfortable ride and increased vehicle stability.

From the outset, wind tunnel analysis focused on harmonising the bodywork design, making the use of secondary, add-on aerodynamic trim components unnecessary.

Particular attention has been paid to the flow of air beneath the MPV. A smooth underfloor with engine, fuel tank and rear floor covers, wheel spats and a wing-shaped vertical fin to the rear all contribute to the streamlining of the airflow, the control of vertical body movement and the optimisation of both front and rear lift coefficients. The result is a flatter straight line ride, a more controlled yaw response, and enhanced rear stability.

Combining with these aerodynamic enhancements, 17" low rolling resistance tyres are available to further improve the new Verso's fuel efficiency.